Luncheon discussion with students on the occasion of Kashmir Black Day

Washington DC: To commemorate Kashmir Black Day and to raise awareness about the recent crisis in Kashmir, a luncheon discussion with the students of John Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) was organized at the Embassy of Pakistan, Washington DC.

In his remarks, Ambassador Dr. Asad M. Khan briefed the students on the history of the Kashmir dispute, the significance of Kashmir Black Day, the relevant UNSC resolutions and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Indian Occupied Jammu & Kashmir after the Indian Government revoked the special status of the region on August 5th, 2019.

Since the last 85 days, Kashmir valley remains under complete lockdown and under occupation of more than 900,000 security forces personnel with complete communications blackout. Over 12 million people are under curfew, children are not able to attend to their schools, colleges and universities, while the local Kashmiri leaders are under house arrest, he added.

While appreciating the bold position taken by U.S. President Donald Trump on the Kashmir issue, Ambassador Khan underscored that the Kashmir issue requires urgent attention of the world community, particularly the U.S. Administration as this may lead to a serious threat for the peace and security in South Asia. While Pakistan is convinced that we want to pursue a policy of dialogue and peace to address all outstanding issues including the Kashmir issue, the same has not been reciprocated by the Indian side, he said.

In addition to the Kashmir issue, Ambassador Khan also briefed the students on a wide range of topics including Pakistan’s domestic and foreign policy priorities, the current economic and security challenges faced by Pakistan, Pak-US bilateral relationship and Pakistan’s role in Afghanistan peace process.

Washington DC,
October 28, 2019.